From the time the U.S. Patent Office was founded in 1790 and throughout the industrial revolution, inventors were required to submit a working, scale model for their invention when applying for a patent. This exhibit features 50 of these original antique models, including everything from the first patented rocking chair to the first burglar alarm.

Courtesy of the Rothschild Patent Model Collection. Tour Management by Smith Kramer Fine Art Services, Kansas City, Missouri.

The Curious World of Patent Models
Opening reception: Saturday, January 19, 2013
6:00-9:00pm
$10 admission
Free for Museum members